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This all-inclusive resort is a hotspot for families, boasting a vibrant coral reef and a serene atmosphere
Place
Oblu Nature by Sentido is found on Helengeli Island in the north except Helengeli Atoll. maldives, hotel It can be reached by a 50-minute shared speedboat journey from Male’ International Airport. The island covers approximately 64,000 square metres, with a walkway running through its center (it takes about 25 minutes to walk from one end to the other). it is known for its rich marine life: Expect to swim among blue tip and black tip reef sharks, turtles and colorful schools of fish.
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stretch
The interiors of the resort are fuss-free and comfortable. The cavernous bar is complete with hanging egg chairs, water-filled mesh beds and high wooden tables. While the hotel certainly isn’t design-led, the recognizable feel of the resort puts guests immediately at ease. There’s a lively atmosphere throughout the day, with cocktails, beer and more as part of the all-inclusive plan. The bar’s TV screens show games like darts and football, and a DJ plays throughout the day before the live entertainment begins (the bar is open until 1am). The singer of the cover divided the guests – some took to the dance floor while others quickly made their way out.
The public areas, including the buffet restaurant, are spacious enough to provide privacy. Whether poolside or sitting at the bar, you’ll see multi-generational families, honeymooning couples, and friends in their twenties.
Service
From bartenders to spa therapists, the staff is warm, friendly, and chatty. On sunset boat trips, the guides are just as delighted as the guests to spot dolphins, while the snorkeling experts are an encyclopedia of knowledge. Service isn’t always consistent – drinks arrive quickly at the main pool, but there’s no service at the small bar near the adult pool. The waiters at the buffet are also less attentive, but the service in the two à la carte restaurants is excellent.
bed and bath
Oblu Nature has 153 villas ranging from beachside to overwater accommodation. Some come with private plunge pools and sunset views, while others have multiple bedrooms perfect for families and groups. Rooms come with all the necessary amenities (hair dryer, TV, a complimentary mini bar and a pod coffee machine, an iron and board, robes, flip flops, toiletries and toothpaste).
Design-wise, the hotel keeps it simple with colorful scattered cushions on the beds, nautical or island-inspired artwork and ocean-colored coffee or bedside tables. Even the smallest villas are spacious, with chaise lounges and walk-in dressing rooms along with ample space for wardrobes. The bathrooms in all villas are partly open-air (although with considerable privacy), so you can hear the sound of the water on the sea or shore while you bathe.
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Food and Drink
Oblu Nature has three restaurants, as well as the poolside Ra Bandhi Bar. Spice is the premier buffet restaurant overlooking the sea – here breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included in the full-board package. The sheer quantity and variety of food on offer is impressive (there are Indian, Italian, Sri Lankan, Maldivian and Mediterranean stations available), but the quality and thoughtfulness of the dishes is lacking. That being said, the all-inclusive plan does allow you to dine at any a la carte restaurant every four nights. Raga Route serves Indian cuisine with excellent wine pairings – try the fish steak or kaffir lime chicken curry with fennel leaves. Just Grill is a Mediterranean-inspired grill restaurant on the beach with a crowd-pleasing menu – think souvlaki skewers, braised pork belly and yellow fin tuna fillets.
Both restaurants offer fine dining experiences that help break up the monotony of the buffet (you can eat at any time for an additional fee). The plan at the Pool Side Bar includes nine classic cocktails, from Margaritas and Mai Tais to Cosmopolitans and Pina Coladas – all have robust measurements and can also be made into mocktails. The menu also features a wide selection of beer and wine. Room service is available at the villa, and you can enjoy a heart-shaped floating breakfast (Maldives Honeymoon Signature) at an additional cost.
facilities
There is no dearth of activities for entertainment in Oblu Nature. The modern gym is located on a deck at the water’s edge, with a weekly calendar of yoga, aerobics and Pilates classes. The adults-only infinity pool offers a tranquil alternative to the bar’s main pool. snorkelling equipment is free, and hours can be enjoyed exploring the coral just off shore. Your stay also includes non-motorized sports equipment like paddleboards and kayaks, while jet skis, water skiing and more are available at additional cost.
For those with itchy feet, the resort dive center offers snorkel trips with manta rays or watching dolphins frolic in the ocean. A sunset cruise on a traditional Dhoni boat is included in your stay (they run daily), as well as a line fishing excursion.
ELE | The NA Spa is a highlight, set over a water garden, with individual and couples treatment rooms. Although at extra cost, the treatments are relatively affordable – and in classic Maldivian fashion, a great way to spend the time when the weather is likely to change.
There are no bikes available, but there is a regular golf buggy shuttle. Obulu is a natural tropical island, and is not home to the pristine white sand beaches synonymous with the Maldives. There are two small community beaches and sandy shoreline in front of some of the villas, but the marine life and two pools are the main attractions here.
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simple use
Oblu Nature Helengeli by Sentido has ramps in all public areas and can add ramps to villas if necessary – except Lagoon Villas.
pet policy
Pets are not allowed.
check in check out
Check-in from 2pm onwards; Check out by 12 noon. All-inclusive offer ends at 11am on the day of checkout.
family friendly
Yes, there is a dedicated children’s nature center with family-sized villas, interactive education, and kid-friendly meals at the buffet. Children’s snorkeling equipment and special guided tours, such as fishing and dolphin watching, are also available.
at a glance
Best thing: Lively house coral reefs for a snorkelling experience right off the shore.
Perfect for: Family.
Not suitable for: Foodie.
From Instagram: Sunset boat cruise.
Address: Helengeli Island, North Male Atoll, Maldives
Phone Number: +960 400 0077
Website: colorofoblu.com
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